Remote Sensor
Sarna News
A Remote Sensor is a sensing device that allows the user to detect targets outside their line-of-sight without revealing themselves. They can range from simple trip-wire to advanced electromagnetic scanners and are deployed by a variety of means, from 'Mechs and other vehicles to Battle Armor and specialized sensor engineers. Remote sensors are commonly used to establish a defensive perimeter or aid in the assistance of scouting and reconnaissance missions.[1]
While the use of remote sensors goes back for many centuries, modern remote sensors were first introduced by the Terran Hegemony in 2590. However, because they were easy to destroy and expensive to replace, the use of remote sensors declined during the Succession Wars. The rediscovery of many lost Star League technologies allowed for their revival following the Clan Invasion.[2]
Remote sensors can be monitored using equipment that is properly tuned to the correct frequencies. For 'Mechs and other vehicles simple Communications Equipment allows for access to this data, however it can be limited to the number of sensors monitored based on the equipment's tonnage. More advanced, specialized equipment such as an Active Probe or Cockpit Command Console can monitor multiple remote sensors at once.[2] Infantry, especially when using portable remote sensors, can also compare multiple sensors at once, though only through special monitors tied to each type of sensor.[1] Hostile ECM can disrupt the link between sensor and monitor, while certain systems such as Stealth Armor can render the target harder to detect.[2] As well, while remote sensors can detect targets that enter their sensing range, they are unable to positively identify the target. Doing so requires a skilled operator that can tell the difference between a harmless animal or an infiltrating enemy soldier.[1]